Brussels, 10/09/2008 (Agence Europe) - In its sixth situation report on radioactive waste and spent fuel management in the EU published on 8 September, the Commission welcomes the progress made in scientific and technical work for the geological disposal of nuclear waste. “Postponements of the definitive solution decision-taking, referred to as 'wait-and-see' policy, are not acceptable because of the potential consequences of radioactive waste and spent fuel management on health and safety, as well as of the European citizens' opinion”, the Commission stresses, welcoming any initiative aimed at encouraging and facilitating progress in the identification and operation of safe waste repositories. Although it believes that regional and international cooperation could accelerate decision-making on definitive disposal solutions, the Commission recalls that a country must be willing to host a regional centre, which requires political and social acceptance. Also, it recommends that proposals from non-EU states for disposal of radioactive waste and spent fuel should not be encouraged given the risk that third countries have not the same technical, political or social requirements as those the EU has set itself. (E.H./transl.jl)